News Center

Gergely: nearly $570,000 for rail infrastructure improvements at U.S. Steel facility in Clairton

(1 day ago) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

CLAIRTON, Dec. 19 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, announced that a $568,000 state grant was awarded to United States Steel Corporation – Clairton Works for several improvements to rail infrastructure at the facility. The funds will be used to replace four turnouts, which allow trains to be guided from one track to another, and rail on three siding tracks. “Steel production is synonymous with Pittsburgh’s history, heritage and cultural identity. All the pieces necessary to transport materials across the state and beyond must be in place to facilitate a safe and timely delivery,” Gergely said. “U.S. Steel’s Clairton Works is a key cog in the company’s efforts, and these dollars will help ensure its customers receive this homemade Pittsburgh product for all their needs.” More information on Pennsylvania Department of Transportation rail grant programs is available on the department’s Rail Freight and Ports page . Read more

 

Gergely praises over $1.15 million in state grants for school safety and mental health needs

(Dec 02, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

McKEESPORT, Dec. 2 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, announced that more than $1.15 million in state grants was awarded to several school districts and schools throughout the 35th Legislative District to make them safer for students, teachers and staff, and address behavioral health needs. Noncompetitive funds were allocated to the following public school districts, charter schools and career education center: McKeesport Area School District: $168,570 West Mifflin Area School District: $143,005 Steel Valley School District: $130,619 South Allegheny School District: $128,117 Clairton City School District: $118,148 Duquesne City School District: $116,719 Allegheny I.U. 3: $70,000 McKeesport Area Tech Center: $70,000 Propel CS – Homestead: $70,000 Propel CS – McKeesport: $70,000 Young Scholars of Greater Allegheny CS: $70,000 “Having managed the finances of a school district and community in previous roles, I know firsthand how important the allocation of dollars is to keep our students healthy and safe at school every day,” Gergely said. “Education is an ideal I strive to sustain and bolster as much as I can as a state representative, and I’m proud to help secure these investments in future generations of successful Pennsylvanians.” Pennsylvania’s School Safety and Security Committee, under the banner of the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency, made the funds possible. Read more

 

IUP alum, State Rep. Gergely, presents The Penn with legislative citation

(Nov 19, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

This Wednesday, Nov. 13, The Penn was honored with a legislative citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in recognition of its 100th anniversary. The citation was co-sponsored and presented by Reps. Matthew R. Gergely and James B. Struzzi II at the State Capitol in Harrisburg. Read more

 

Gergely: over $740,000 in state conservation grants for local communities and Pittsburgh

(Nov 14, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

McKEESPORT, Nov. 14 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, announced that a total of $743,000 in state conservation grants was awarded to three projects in local communities and in Pittsburgh. Gergely joined a long list of state lawmakers who helped make possible a $600,000 Community Conservation Partnership Program grant for the coordination and funding of an Urban Wood Reuse Project and Urban and Community Forestry workforce development program by the Pittsburgh Conservation Corps. He also collaborated with state Sen. Jim Brewster, D-Allegheny, to secure $97,400 in C2P2 funds to rehabilitate Breznay Memorial Park in Lincoln Borough. Work will include: Renovation of ballfield. Construction of pedestrian walkway. Installation of fencing and bleachers. ADA access. Landscaping. Other related site improvements. Gergely and several state representatives and senators facilitated $45,600 in C2P2 dollars to prepare a Rivers Conservation Plan for the Youghiogheny River from Connellsville in Fayette County to McKeesport in Allegheny County, as well. “Safeguarding the environmental health of Pittsburgh and its communities is paramount, and these funds will go a long way to keeping both viable and vibrant across many walks of life. The monies will also help ensure the area remains a great place for neighbors and visitors to lay down roots and experience all that the Steel City and western PA have to offer, respectively,” Read more

 

Gergely hails nearly $5 million in community grants

(Nov 06, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

McKEESPORT, Nov. 6 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, announced that a total of $4.85 million in state grants was awarded to several local institutions. Gergely and state Sen. Jim Brewster, D-Allegheny, helped facilitate the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program ’s sum allocation to four projects: Mele & Mele & Sons Inc. – $2.3 million for phase one construction work at City Center of Duquesne. City of McKeesport – $750,000 for concrete restoration at Lysle Avenue Parking Garage. Clairton City School District – $500,000 for renovating Clairton Stadium. W & E Investments LLC – $300,000 for purchasing and renovating 3.82 acres of land at 211 Center St. in McKeesport for River Materials Inc. Gergely, Brewster, and state Rep. Nick Pisciottano, D-Allegheny, also secured a $1 million grant for the demolition of the former Century III Mall. “These dollars are much more than efforts to strengthen local infrastructure and aid a local resource. They are investments in the people and communities I’m honored to represent and will help ensure both remain safe and thriving for years to come,” Gergely said. “Thank you to Senator Brewster and Representative Pisciottano for their collaboration in acquiring the funding.” RACP is a Pennsylvania grant program for the design, acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational Read more

 

Gergely: over $3.7 million in community grants awarded

(Oct 24, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

McKEESPORT, Oct. 2 4 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, announced that a total of $3,719,752 in state grants was awarded to several local institutions. Gergely and state Sen. Jim Brewster, D-Allegheny, helped facilitate the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program’s allocation sum of $750,000 to three projects: South Allegheny School District -- $250,000 for roof replacement work at South Allegheny Elementary School. Steel Valley School District -- $250,000 for roof replacement and HVAC work at Barrett Elementary School. Steel Valley School District -- $250,000 for HVAC, plumbing, and health and safety upgrades at Steel Valley Middle/High School. In addition, $2,969,752 in Local Share Account funds was awarded to the following 14 projects: McKeesport -- $750,000 to improve the Lysle Boulevard Parking Garage. Clairton Municipal Authority -- $434,000 to construct a septage receiving station. Port Vue Borough -- $275,000 to purchase emergency response equipment for Vigilant Hose Company No. 1. Clairton -- $250,000 to install new windows and doors in its City Hall Building. Duquesne -- $250,000 to inventory water lines. Liberty Borough -- $144,257 to purchase a new backhoe for the public works department. Duquesne -- $144,094 to purchase a utility tractor. Steel Rivers Council Of Governments -- $142,350 to upgrade a walking trail in Heritage Hill Park. Read more

 

Gergely’s multi-faceted liquor licensee bill signed into law

(Oct 22, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

HARRISBURG, Oct. 22 – Gov. Josh Shapiro held a ceremonial bill signing yesterday at the state Capitol for state Rep. Matthew R. Gergely’s bill that will help liquor-licensed establishments address staffing needs and increase profitability through multiple measures. Act 57 of 2024 , formerly H.B. 829, was originally introduced as a flexible hiring initiative, one that allows qualified employees to work at more than one liquor licensee at a given time. The law was amended, however, to also include the following provisions: Increase the number of weekly happy hours from 14 to 24 at bars and restaurants. Allow entities to offer as many as two discounted combination meals, alcoholic drink included, daily. Make permanent the option of temporary outdoor dining areas within 1,000 feet of these establishments. “Liquor licensees were hit hard by COVID-19, and many struggled to make ends meet and stay in business. My legislation invests in the financial stability and livelihood of establishment employees and helps these small businesses flourish and contribute to a strong local and state economy,” Gergely said. “I want to thank Governor Shapiro, my colleagues in both chambers, and everyone who made Act 57 possible.” Act 57 of 2024 is Gergely’s second bill to become law this legislative session. In April, Act 6 of 2024 , which ensures donated plasma is suitable for integration into essential pharmaceuticals, Read more

 

Gergely praises $1.1 million grant for Carnegie Library of Homestead

(Oct 11, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 11 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, announced that a $1.1 million grant was awarded to Carnegie Library of Homestead . The funds, going specifically towards the installation of a sprinkler, will help the library continue its mission to deliver free public access to computers and wireless internet access. Providing these services enables jobseekers to log into employment application systems and receive staff assistance with completing applications, setting up email accounts, creating accounts for unique application tracking systems, scanning and uploading documents, and other application-related tasks. “Keeping library visitors safe with this new sprinkler will allow them to put all their energy and focus into utilizing this tremendous facility for all their employment and educational needs,” Gergely said. “My thanks to Sen. Jim Brewster for his collaboration in securing these dollars and to all the community partners for their advocacy on behalf of the library.” Carnegie Library of Homestead’s grant money is part of $45 million package made possible by the Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program , which is facilitated by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority. The program, part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, offers competitive grant monies to community anchor institutions for constructing, acquiring or improving buildings that are or will be open to the public and will Read more

 

Summer 2024 Newsletter

(Aug 27, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

I’ve been privileged to serve the great people of the 35th Legislative District and Pennsylvania as a whole for a year and a half now, and while the time has given me a chance to get more acclimated with my role, I’ve not slowed down when it comes to doing good work in Harrisburg and athome. I’m excited to give you a preview of what you can look forward to reading about in the next few pages. Read more

 

Gergely votes ‘yes’ on new state budget, citing strong investment in state’s public schools

(Jul 15, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

“The quality of a student’s education should never, ever depend on the wealth of their ZIP code," Gergely said. "The new state budget allocates $1.3 billion in funding to all students, plus additional funding of more than half a billion dollars to level the playing field for students in chronically underfunded school districts, including many of our own. The plan is a promising step on the road to bringing the equality in public education we have sadly lacked for too long." Read more

 

More happy hours could be coming to Pennsylvania after bill’s passage in state Senate

(Jul 03, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

Pennsylvania could soon see more happy hours following the state Senate’s passage of a bill that would make a number of changes to Pennsylvania’s labyrinthian liquor code. Read more

 

Gergely’s employment flexibility bill amongst liquor-licensed establishments passes PA Senate

(Jul 03, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

HARRISBURG, July 3 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely’s bill that would allow individuals to work at more than one business licensed to sell alcohol passed the state Senate Tuesday, 47-3. Gergely is a member of the PA House Liquor Control Committee and recognized the need to assist licensed food and beverage establishments with H.B. 829 . “The pandemic took a heavy toll on small businesses across the country, especially those in the food and beverage industry. Not only that, bars, restaurants and other liquor-licensed entities are still facing a worker shortage in the post-COVID era, especially when it comes to hiring experienced and knowledgeable staff,” he said. “House Bill 829 would release such workers from the exclusive grip exercised by businesses with liquor licenses, and this new inclusivity would lead to higher profits and boost to local economies. Having extra money in their pockets will help workers and their families afford daily necessities and benefit their financial stability as well. “This bill is a win-win for Pennsylvanians and Pennsylvania small businesses,” Gergely added. “I want to thank House and Senate members on both sides of the aisle for helping this commonsense measure reach this point.” House Bill 829 is Gergely’s second piece of legislation to pass the state Senate this year and now heads to the governor for his signature. Read more

 

Gergely’s bill to advance PA health care initiative becomes law

(May 01, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

HARRISBURG, May 1 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely’s bill to protect plasma donated throughout Pennsylvania and preserve its suitability for use in health and medical forums has been signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro at the state Capitol. Act No. 6 of 2024 , formerly H.B. 1795, requires that source plasma undergoes extensive testing upon donation and before it is ultimately integrated into essential pharmaceuticals The new law, co-sponsored by state Rep. Tim Briggs, D-Montgomery, also allows more focus to be devoted to developing such pharmaceuticals by eliminating a signification portion of subsequent testing conducted in labs during the clinical development phase. “Not only am I thrilled that my bill is officially on the books in PA, I’m thrilled to help put a positive step forward into place for Pennsylvanians who depend on donated plasma. Safeguarding their health is crucial, and I’m grateful to Gov. Shapiro for getting this legislation across the finishing line.” said Gergely, D-Allegheny. “Having been in office for a little over a year, I’m proud to be able to facilitate the passage of this bill and work with the Pennsylvania House and Senate and the governor.” “We're thrilled to join the governor in signing this bill and providing a beacon of hope for those facing serious medical challenges,” Briggs added. “Let's celebrate this milestone together and continue to fight for real Read more

 

Gergely’s bill to advance PA health care initiative heads to governor’s desk to become law

(Apr 11, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

HARRISBURG, April 11 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely’s bill to protect plasma donated throughout Pennsylvania and preserve its suitability for use in health and medical forums passed the state Senate unanimously this week. The legislation (H.B. 1795) would require that source plasma, specifically, undergoes extensive testing upon donation and before it is ultimately integrated into essential pharmaceuticals. Gergely’s bill, co-sponsored by state Rep. Tim Briggs, D-Montgomery, would also allow more focus to be devoted to developing such pharmaceuticals by eliminating a signification portion of subsequent testing conducted in labs during the clinical development phase. “Plasma centers are a priority for me, as there are many in the communities I represent. Safeguarding healthy and viable plasma not only enhances quality of life for residents, it will save lives throughout the 35th District and the commonwealth at large,” said Gergely, D-Allegheny. “A huge thanks to Rep. Briggs for his collaboration and to the members of the Senate for all their efforts in getting this legislation to Governor Shapiro’s desk.” “We're on the verge of securing a lifeline for those battling serious medical conditions. With this bill’s imminent passage into law, we affirm our commitment to ensuring that every drop of plasma donated in our state is a beacon of hope for those in need,” Briggs added. “Let's Read more

 

Gergely thrilled that $760,000+ federal grant is going to area school district

(Apr 03, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

MCKEESPORT, April 3 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, announced that federal grants totaling $764,400 have been awarded to McKeesport Area School District . The funds, one in a series of 21st Century Community Learning Center grants , would help establish and/or support community learning centers that provide academic, artistic and cultural enrichment opportunities for students and their families. “Learning is never a one-size-fits-all proposition, and educational needs often extend far beyond the classroom door,” Gergely said. “The new funding will help ensure students in our district have access to the additional programs and services they need – from social skill building, nutrition and behavioral support to tutoring in essential academic subjects like math and literacy – to help them succeed in the world.” The funded program must occur during non-school hours or periods when schools are not in session to help them meet state and local standards in core academic subjects. Centers must also offer students a broad array of activities that can complement their regular academic programs and literacy and other educational services to families. A full list of 21st Century CCLC grant recipients can be found here . Read more

 

Sen. Brewster and Rep. Gergely Announce $1.8 Million Grant for Versailles Avenue Bridge in McKeesport

(Mar 27, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

Today, Sen. Jim Brewster and Rep. Matthew Gergely announced a $1.8 million Multimodal Transportation grant for the City of McKeesport. Read more

 

Gergely: $916,000+ federal grant for safer schools

(Mar 19, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

PITTSBURGH, March 19 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, announced that a $916,680 federal grant has been awarded to West Mifflin Area School District . This Bipartisan Safer Communities Act Stronger Connections Grant will seek to curtail and prevent instances of bullying, hate and violence at an individual and systemic level. Funds can be utilized to address the overall health of students and staff, raise awareness for families and the community at large, and institute inclusive and/or equitable policies. “Having managed financial matters for a public school system, I know firsthand how beneficial these monies will be to ensuring a school environment that is conducive to not simply learning and teaching but to safety and personal well-being as well,” Gergely said. “Students and staff deserve to put all of their focus behind succeeding at their highest possible academic level and facilitating instruction that aids in such performance respectively.” More information about BSCA SCGs, including the full list of schools to receive these grants, and related funding can be found here . Safe school resources can also be found here . Read more

 

Gergely advocates against water and sewage rate increases at PUC hearing in Port Vue

(Jan 31, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

PORT VUE, Jan. 31 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, testified about proposed rate increases by water and sewage companies and their impact on the community during a Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission public hearing held at the Port Vue Borough Building. Gergely highlighted the importance of affordable access to clean water as a basic necessity and not just a commodity, as the proposed rate hikes have been criticized for disproportionately affecting senior citizens and low-income families. He also underscored the need for the PUC to rigorously scrutinize these increases and hold corporations accountable. “As state representative of PA’s 35th Legislative District, my commitment to tackling the challenges of water and sewage rates has been unwavering since Day One in office,” Gergely said. “I am deeply engaged in these matters not just as a duty but with a passion to safeguard our residents’ rights.” Data presented indicated that the proposed rate increases are steep and unprecedented, especially during a time when residents are already facing economic challenges, including inflation. Gergely called for the PUC's intervention to safeguard the public interest and explore mitigation strategies, such as renewable and efficient water and sewage management systems. “Citizen access to affordable water and sewage is absolutely non-negotiable,” he added. Emphasizing the importance of Read more

 

Gergely applauds grants totaling $675,000 for community projects

(Jan 17, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 17 – State Rep. Matthew R. Gergely, D-Allegheny, announced that a total of $675,000 in grants has been awarded to multiple community projects throughout the 35th Legislative District. Accounting for $525,000 are grants made possible by the Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund under the Commonwealth Financing Authority . Grant recipients are: Filipino American Association of Pittsburgh: $75,000 for repairs to a multicultural center and function hall in West Mifflin. First Step Recovery Homes Inc.: $50,000 for homeless housing expansion at 416 Olive St. in McKeesport. Homestead Borough: $50,000 for upkeeping the Betty and Wanda Amphitheater. Lincoln Borough: $100,000 for maintenance on the stormwater system near 335 Dora Drive. McKeesport Area School District: $50,000 for D.A.R.E. program. Munhall Borough: $75,000 for Main Street Business Corridor Improvement project. Steel Rivers Council of Governments: $75,000 for demolition of buildings in Duquesne and $50,000 for Heritage Hill Park walking trail renovations. The remaining $150,000 in grants come courtesy of the CFA’s Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program . Grant recipients are: Homestead Borough: $50,000 for the Monongahela River fishing pier. Lincoln Borough: $50,000 for improvements to Breznay Field. West Homestead Borough: $50,000 for the West Homestead Recreation Park project. “Helping to secure these dollars Read more

 

Winter 2024 Newsletter

(Jan 09, 2024) Rep. Matthew R. Gergely

Please check out my Winter 2024 Newsletter, my first as a PA state representative! Read more

 

Gergely: nearly $570,000 for rail infrastructure improvements at U.S. Steel facility in Clairton
1 day ago

Gergely praises over $1.15 million in state grants for school safety and mental health needs
Dec 02, 2024

IUP alum, State Rep. Gergely, presents The Penn with legislative citation
Nov 19, 2024

Gergely: over $740,000 in state conservation grants for local communities and Pittsburgh
Nov 14, 2024

Gergely hails nearly $5 million in community grants
Nov 06, 2024

Gergely: over $3.7 million in community grants awarded
Oct 24, 2024

Gergely’s multi-faceted liquor licensee bill signed into law
Oct 22, 2024

Gergely praises $1.1 million grant for Carnegie Library of Homestead
Oct 11, 2024

Summer 2024 Newsletter
Aug 27, 2024

Gergely votes ‘yes’ on new state budget, citing strong investment in state’s public schools
Jul 15, 2024

More happy hours could be coming to Pennsylvania after bill’s passage in state Senate
Jul 03, 2024

Gergely’s employment flexibility bill amongst liquor-licensed establishments passes PA Senate
Jul 03, 2024

Gergely’s bill to advance PA health care initiative becomes law
May 01, 2024

Gergely’s bill to advance PA health care initiative heads to governor’s desk to become law
Apr 11, 2024

Gergely thrilled that $760,000+ federal grant is going to area school district
Apr 03, 2024

Sen. Brewster and Rep. Gergely Announce $1.8 Million Grant for Versailles Avenue Bridge in McKeesport
Mar 27, 2024

Gergely: $916,000+ federal grant for safer schools
Mar 19, 2024

Gergely advocates against water and sewage rate increases at PUC hearing in Port Vue
Jan 31, 2024

Gergely applauds grants totaling $675,000 for community projects
Jan 17, 2024

Winter 2024 Newsletter
Jan 09, 2024